Barbados the vibrant culture of Caribbean offering you some solitude away from city life, Here are some facts about Secluded Beaches Caribbean to make your trip successful.

Barbados is a sovereign island country in the Lesser Antilles. It is 34 kilometres (21 mi) in length and up to 23 kilometres (14 mi) in width, covering an area of 431 square kilometres (166 sq mi). It is situated in the western area of the North Atlantic and 100 kilometres (62 mi) east of the Windward Islands and the Caribbean Sea;[4] therein, it is about 168 kilometres (104 mi) east of the islands of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, and 400 kilometres (250 mi) north-east of Trinidad and Tobago. Barbados is outside of the principal Atlantic hurricane belt.

Barbados was initially visited by the Spanish around the late 1400s to early 1500s and first appears on a Spanish map from 1511. The Spanish explorers may have plundered the island of whatever native peoples’ resided therein to become slaves.The Portuguese visited in 1536, but they too left it unclaimed, with their only remnants being an introduction of wild hogs for a good supply of meat whenever the island was visited. The first English ship, the Olive Blossom, arrived in Barbados in 1624. They took possession of it in the name of King James I. In 1627 the first permanent settlers arrived from England and it became an English and later British colony.

Barbados has an estimated population of 284,000 people, with around 80,000 living in or around Bridgetown, the largest city and the country’s capital. In 1966, Barbados became an independent state and Commonwealth realm, retaining Queen Elizabeth II as Head of State. Barbados is one of the Caribbean’s leading tourist destinations and is one of the most developed islands in the region, despite it actually being classed as an Atlantic Island, with an HDI number of 0.825. In 2011 Barbados ranked second in the Americas (16th globally) on Transparency International’s Corruption Perception Index, behind Canada.

According to accounts by descendants of the indigenous Arawakan-speaking tribes in other regional areas, the original name for Barbados was Ichirouganaim, with possible translations including “Red land with white teeth”, “Redstone island with teeth outside (reefs)”,or simply “Teeth”.

The reason for the later name Barbados is controversial. According to some sources the Portuguese, en route to Brazil, were the first Europeans to come upon the island, while others say it was the Spanish who gave the Spanish name “Los Barbudos”. The word Barbados means “bearded ones”, but it is a matter of conjecture whether “bearded” refers to the long, hanging roots of the bearded fig-tree (Ficus citrifolia), indigenous to the island; to allegedly bearded Caribs once inhabiting the island; or, more fancifully, to the foam spraying over the outlying reefs giving the impression of a beard. In 1519, a map produced by the Genoese mapmaker Visconte Maggiolo showed and named Barbados in its correct position. Furthermore, an island in the Leewards that is very close in name is Barbuda and was once named Las Barbuadas by the Spanish.

Other names or nicknames associated with Barbados include “Bim” and “Bimshire”. The origin is uncertain but several theories exist. The National Cultural Foundation of Barbados says that “Bim” was a word commonly used by slaves and that it derives from the phrase “bi mu” or either (“bem”, “Ndi bem”, “Nwanyi ibem” or “Nwoke ibem”)[18] from an Igbo phrase meaning “my people” or “my place”. In colloquial or literary contexts, “Bim” can also take a more deific tone, referring to the “goddess” Barbados

Many Caribbean islands have beaches, but where Barbados differs is what lies behind the surf and sand. No matter your budget or style, you can find a place to stay that suits you, whether cheap, funky, restful or posh. All the comforts of home are close at hand if you want them as Barbados is one of the most developed islands in the region. The literacy rate approaches 98% and the capital Bridgetown and its surrounds are booming.

Away from the luxury resorts of the west coast and the well-developed south coast, however, is where you’ll find what makes the island special. Central Barbados has a rolling terrain of limestone hills and amid this lush scenery are fascinating survivors of the colonial past. Vast plantation homes show the wealth of these settlers and face up to the brutality of the slave trade. Museums document this engrossing history while several botanic gardens exploit the beauty possible from the perfect growing conditions.

In Barbados, we’ve mastered the art of fine living. And offer daily lessons for those who seek to do the same. Here at the official tourism site of Barbados, you’ll discover a vibrant culture passionate in spirit and full of life. A place where refined luxury and exceptional culinary delights dance and mingle among lush tropical greenery, limpid blue waters and warm golden sunlight.

Photo Source:ediblemanhattan.com

Spend a day on a white sandy beach. Try some flying fish. Enjoy a rum punch. Learn to trade the rush, rush for the slow and easy. Just give us a few days and you won’t remember the old you. Let us teach you how to truly live.

Looking for a place where you can spend some lone time with your loved one? Here are Secluded Beaches Caribbean to end your search.Check out the list of islands that will offer you the ultimate experience of lifetime.

The Caribbean isn’t exactly known to be cheap, but you can stretch your dollar pretty far on certain islands — even when traveling during the winter high season. Popular hot spots like the Bahamas, the Dominican Republic, Puerto Rico, and others offer great value in terms of easy access and well-priced lodging and dining options.

PhotoSource:fun-costa-rica-vacations.com

But some off-the-beaten-path islands, from Montserrat to Tobago, are also worth seeking out for the extraordinary bang for the buck that they provide. All-inclusive holidays dominate the scene on most of these islands — great if you want a worry-free, value-packed vacation, but limiting if you want to experience the destination beyond the resort gates; don’t overlook smaller, locally owned villas and inns for terrific, cost-effective alternatives.

1. Aruba

It’s no surprise that this Dutch-owned island is a popular destination for package holidays — sun-kissed and chockablock with sparkly casinos and pretty beaches, it receives frequent direct flights from the U.S. and has a plethora of all-inclusive options. You’ll find great value on this budget Caribbean island in the form of spa resorts, private villas, and brand-name hotels like Marriott and the Hyatt Regency.

Great Value Hotel — Manchebo Beach Resort and Spa: This excellent-value beach boutique hotel is set on a pristine stretch of sand with a first-rate spa and rooms with fine Indonesian-style furniture, private patios or balconies, and flat-screen TVs.

2. The Bahamas

Located about 50 miles from Florida and easily accessible on nonstop flights, this 700-island archipelago is a prime spot for sun-soaked holidays that don’t break the bank.

The perennially popular Paradise Island offers sand beaches, stellar entertainment, and mega-resorts along Nassau and Cable Beach; another affordable destination is Grand Bahama Island. The vibe on these budget Caribbean islands suits a wide range of folk, from families to adventurous young couples.

3. Dominican Republic

The Dominican Republic offers both affordability and atmosphere in one fell swoop. Vacationers come for the coral-lined coast, first-class shopping, and Vegas-style casinos and nightlife. Throw in a handful of interesting museums, pulsating culture, easy access from the U.S., and a wealth of all-inclusive resorts, and you get a delightful holiday on a budget Caribbean island that won’t damage your net worth.

4. Jamaica

Jamaica, home to relaxation, reggae, and rum at pocket-friendly prices, is an ideal island destination. This sunny Shangri-la is packed with a broad array of all-inclusive resorts and affordable lodging options. Plus, it’s a breeze to reach this budget Caribbean destination on direct and often very affordable flights (sometimes for as little as $250 roundtrip) from the U.S.

History, sand, and rainforest combine to make Puerto Rico the perfect vacation mix of relaxation and cultural discovery. Between exploring the forts in San Juan (both San Felipe del Morro and San Cristobal are UNESCO World Heritage Sites), El Yunque rainforest, and taking a tour of the Casa Bacardi Rum Distillery, make sure you leave enough time for the beaches.

Why It’s A Good Value

With its proximity to the mainland, not to mention the plethora of low-cost carriers offering service to the island, Puerto Rico is an ideal location for an inexpensive vacation.
You also don’t have to worry about currency exchange, or remembering your passport.

With nonstop flights from more than 20 U.S. cities, finding low fares is easy. American uses the island as a hub for the other Caribbean destinations it serves, and starting May 3, JetBlue is adding a twelfth weekly flight to San Juan from Boston. Also look to AirTran, Spirit, and Sun Country (seasonal service) when searching for flights.

Curacao

The colorful buildings in Curacao, not to mention the year-round 80-degree weather, minimal rainfall, and 65 individual snorkeling and diving sites, are sure to brighten up your stay. See 1,500-year-old Caquetios Indian drawings at the Hato Caves, visit the oldest synagogue still in use in the Western hemisphere, or take a dive to the Mushroom Forest, Airplane Wreck, or Tug Boat.

The Curacao NOW program is offering $200 in instant credit, $200 food and beverage credit, one free night, and more when you book a vacation package by March 15. The offer is valid for travel May 1 through July 4 and August 15 through December 18. For more specials, check out Curacao’s official tourism website. The site also has a handy Vacation Matcher, which generates a list of suggested activities based on who you’re traveling with and your interests.

Best Beaches

Lizabet suggests Cas Abao, since “the water was crystal clear and perfect for snorkeling … This was a cove, but even so it was not crowded.” She also notes the “gorgeous view” and the “huge rock formations framing the cove.”

Whilst staying at Smugglers Cove there are plenty of activities to choose from. Dive trips are run daily with the option to do Kayaking, snorkeling or learn to scuba dive. Island hopping tours are a great way to explore the area while getting your bearings. Also running from Smugglers Cove are fishing and dolphin watching tours all departing from Wailoaloa beach in front of the hotel.

Bounty Island and Beachcomber are just 20 minutes from Smugglers Cove with guests able to take a day trip to enjoy the beautiful reefs surrounding the islands. Snorkel your way through the morning and enjoy lunch on the island then spend the afternoon relaxing in or out of the water.

For those less adventurous there is beach volleyball, sunbathing and simply relaxing by the pool. If you want to go further a field there is the ‘Travel Zone’ that can take care of all your day trips & Island hopping adventure needs.

Smuggler Cove is a small, picturesque all-weather anchorage on the south side of Sechelt Peninsula near Secret Cove. To access this park by land, visitors can hike 4 km from a parking lot off Hwy 101. This park provides camping, hiking, swimming, kayaking and picnicking.

Park Size: 185 hectares

Special Notes:

• Entry from Welcome Passage is best made at low tide when reef and rock projections are visible. Please watch for drying and projecting reefs as you navigate around the cove.There are many eye bolts located along the shoreline to accommodate stern lines.

The US Virgin Islands are a great place to explore if you are looking for a Caribbean lifestyle. There are endless options of adventure to avail for. Take a look at the details about these Secluded Beaches Caribbean and have fun.

while still living under the protection of the American flag. Here are some things you will want to do to ensure a smooth transition if you are considering a move to the US Virgin Islands.

• EVALUATE YOUR PREPAREDNESS: The culture shock that can occur when moving to the US Virgin Islands is often the biggest reason new residents choose to move back home.

Paperwork, and most things in general, move much more slowly on the islands than in the states. People who are accustomed to speed and efficiency may be quickly frustrated by the laid-back, “I’ll get to it later” attitude of many islanders.

• DECIDE WHICH ISLAND IS RIGHT FOR YOU: There are 3 major islands in the US Virgin Islands – St. Thomas, St. Croix, and St. John. There is also a fourth, smaller island called Water Island which is purely residential and has no hospital, police/fire department, or Motor Vehicle Department and whose residents rely on private boats or ferries to St. Thomas for work, groceries, health care, etc. St. Thomas is considered the most “city like,” of the islands, boasting shopping centers and one of the most beautiful harbors in the world. St. Croix is the biggest of the islands, with a reputation for being more “country like” than St. Thomas. St. John is two-thirds National Park, and has a higher percentage of non native residents than the other two islands. St. John does not have any public junior high or high schools, so residents must either ferry their children to St. Thomas for school, pay for private schooling, or homeschool their children.

When traveling to the Caribbean island of St. John, no passport is required for U.S. citizens since it’s part of the U.S. Virgin Islands. St. John, along with her sister islands, was discovered in 1493 by Christopher Columbus, says Go to St. John, a tourism site. As of 2011, visitors will find only two resorts located on St. John, as almost two-thirds of the island is a national park.

Caneel Bay Resort

• Located on approximately 170 acres in the Virgin Islands National Park, the Caneel Bay Resort offers family-friendly accommodations and activities. This waterfront resort features seven private beaches that border the property. The Caneel Bay Resort was once part of the Rockresorts hotel chain owned by Laurance Rockefeller.

Gallows Point Resort

• The Gallows Point Resort offers waterfront accommodations with panoramic views of St. John’s Cruz Bay. The resort’s spacious suites and villas range in size from about 750 to 1,000 square feet. On-site dining is available at Zozo’s Ristorante. Continental breakfast is served daily at the Gallows Point Gourmet. Both also offer room-service menus for in-room dining.

The on-site swimming pool is amoeba-shaped and located near the beach, along with an outdoor whirlpool hot tub. A few steps from the resort, guests can go swimming and snorkeling in Cruz Bay. Kayaks and small boats are also available for guest use. Since the Gallows Point Resort is primarily for adults, only children over the age of 12 are welcome.

The Westin Resort of St. John

• Also located on Cruz Bay, The Westin Resort of St. John is situated on 34 acres of private island. Many of Westin’s luxury suites are equipped with their own balcony, in-room whirlpool hot tub and views of the sea. The private beachfront comprises more than 1,200 feet, offering a number of water sports’ activities and a waterfront dock.

The Westin Resort’s grounds feature brick walkways that form the shape of a fish bone, as well as tropical plants, palm trees and multi-colored flower gardens. As a family-friendly resort, the Westin offers all children under the age of 18 to stay free with their parents. The resort also features a teen center, children’s club, and kids eat free (a maximum of two) per each dining adult.

Owen islands the best place for both young and old – from social and active explorers to couples seeking privacy. Explore this Secluded Beaches Caribbean to make your trip more fun and fulfilled.

For a real adventure and a true taste of Cayman watersports, visit the island getaway Owen Island, a small islet just off the south-western coast of Little Cayman. The only way to reach this island getaway is by sailboat or kayaking across the waters of Bloody Bay, so be prepared for an exciting voyage! If you love the idea of a Caribbean island getaway to a secluded beach for the ultimate in romance, rest, and relaxation, Owen Island is the Caribbean vacation for you.

Photo Source:itsyourstoexplore.com

For some vacationers, the attractions, near or around a beach are the most important attributes. For others, getting away from it all is all their looking for. Owen Island accommodates all with a personality and a character that is unlike anything else found in the Caribbean.

Once reaching the island, savour a picnic or simply enjoy the tranquillity that surrounds. This islet does not have any buildings, homes or human habitation, making it the perfect Caribbean vacation destination for true rest and relaxation.

Little Cayman is a quiet place compared to its oft-visited neighbor, Grand Cayman.

However, the ultimate deserted beach in the Caymans is the uninhabited Owen Island, which sits about 200 yards off the southern side of Little Cayman. Owen Island can be reached by kayak or sailboat, although strong swimmers have been known to swim the distance. The clear blue waters, almost deserted fine-sand beaches, and uninhabited landscapes make this as close to idyllic as most people can hope to get in the Caribbean.

Grand Cayman is the biggest of the Cayman Islands in the western Caribbean Seas. During the 18th century the Cayman Islands became a renowned hideaway for pirates. A bit of the pirate mystery can be experienced by visiting the pirate’s caves near Bodden Town. That is but one of the many things to do on this Caribbean island.

Grand Cayman is the biggest of the Cayman Islands in the western Caribbean Seas. During the 18th century the Cayman Islands became a renowned hideaway for pirates. A bit of the pirate mystery can be experienced by visiting the pirate’s caves near Bodden Town. That is but one of the many things to do on this Caribbean island.

o The stable climate of these islands provides beach weather year-round. Grand Cayman is especially popular for its excellent beach holidays. For complete tranquility, the secluded beach of Owen Island is a short boat ride away.

Water activities

o Most tourists are attracted to the scuba diving and snorkeling opportunities in the blue waters around Grand Cayman Island. Another water activity adventurers can consider is deep sea fishing. A variety of trips are also available.

Road Trip

• Take a day to explore the many interesting sights of the island. Learn a bit about its history by visiting the Mission House near Bodden Town. The butterfly farm houses butterflies from all over the world; at the turtle farm you will get a chance to play with a turtle.

Restaurants

• The Over the Edge restaurant is in a very scenic location and you can taste some of the excellent local cuisine. Bamboo offers interesting Asian dishes accompanied by live entertainment. Lone Star Bar &Grill is famous for its margaritas and other funky cocktails.

Shopping

• George Town is ideal for duty free shopping, where perfumes and watches can be up to 30 percent cheaper than anywhere else. Many other smaller shops where unique souvenirs can be bought also attract tourists. The Craft Market at the Waterfront in Georgetown offers products that are mainly handmade and exquisite shell. Wood and leather items will tempt even the strong.

Owen islands the best place for both young and old – from social and active explorers to couples seeking privacy. Explore this secluded beaches caribbean to make your trip more fun and fulfilled.

For a real adventure and a true taste of Cayman watersports, visit the island getaway Owen Island, a small islet just off the south-western coast of Little Cayman. The only way to reach this island getaway is by sailboat or kayaking across the waters of Bloody Bay, so be prepared for an exciting voyage! If you love the idea of a Caribbean island getaway to a secluded beach for the ultimate in romance, rest, and relaxation, Owen Island is the Caribbean vacation for you.

For some vacationers, the attractions, near or around a beach are the most important attributes. For others, getting away from it all is all their looking for. Owen Island accommodates all with a personality and a character that is unlike anything else found in the Caribbean.

Once reaching the island, savour a picnic or simply enjoy the tranquillity that surrounds. This islet does not have any buildings, homes or human habitation, making it the perfect Caribbean vacation destination for true rest and relaxation.

Little Cayman is a quiet place compared to its oft-visited neighbor, Grand Cayman. However, the ultimate deserted beach in the Caymans is the uninhabited Owen Island, which sits about 200 yards off the southern side of Little Cayman. Owen Island can be reached by kayak or sailboat, although strong swimmers have been known to swim the distance. The clear blue waters, almost deserted fine-sand beaches, and uninhabited landscapes make this as close to idyllic as most people can hope to get in the Caribbean.

Things to Do on Grand Cayman

Grand Cayman is the biggest of the Cayman Islands in the western Caribbean Seas. During the 18th century the Cayman Islands became a renowned hideaway for pirates. A bit of the pirate mystery can be experienced by visiting the pirate’s caves near Bodden Town. That is but one of the many things to do on this Caribbean island.

Things to Do on Grand Cayman

Grand Cayman is the biggest of the Cayman Islands in the western Caribbean Seas. During the 18th century the Cayman Islands became a renowned hideaway for pirates. A bit of the pirate mystery can be experienced by visiting the pirate’s caves near Bodden Town. That is but one of the many things to do on this Caribbean island.

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1.Beaches

oThe stable climate of these islands provides beach weather year-round. Grand Cayman is especially popular for its excellent beach holidays. For complete tranquility, the secluded beach of Owen Island is a short boat ride away.

Water activities

oMost tourists are attracted to the scuba diving and snorkeling opportunities in the blue waters around Grand Cayman Island. Another water activity adventurers can consider is deep sea fishing. A variety of trips are also available.

Road Trip

·Take a day to explore the many interesting sights of the island. Learn a bit about its history by visiting the Mission House near Bodden Town. The butterfly farm houses butterflies from all over the world; at the turtle farm you will get a chance to play with a turtle.

Restaurants

·The Over the Edge restaurant is in a very scenic location and you can taste some of the excellent local cuisine. Bamboo offers interesting Asian dishes accompanied by live entertainment. Lone Star Bar &Grill is famous for its margaritas and other funky cocktails.

Shopping

·George Town is ideal for duty free shopping, where perfumes and watches can be up to 30 percent cheaper than anywhere else. Many other smaller shops where unique souvenirs can be bought also attract tourists. The Craft Market at the Waterfront in Georgetown offers products that are mainly handmade and exquisite shell. Wood and leather items will tempt even the strong.

Caribbean islands are full of adventure waiting to thrill you. Take a look at the facts given below to know more about the place and explore this part of the Secluded Beaches Caribbean.

Where Is Turks & Caicos

The Caribbean Sea is a large body of water that borders North, Central and South America. This area is noted for having a temperate climate, sandy beaches of differing colors, many islands, genetically varied plant life and easily observed wild life that includes aquatic mammals such as wild dolphins and brightly colored fish. This area is also home to many exotic birds. One of the most visited parts of the Caribbean are the many islands of Turks and Caicos.

Location

• Turks and Caicos are located in the Caribbean Sea. They are considered part of the Greater Antilles group of islands. The Greater Antilles islands are generally located just off the coast of the United States. Turks and Caicos are located to the north of the island of Hispaniola. Hispaniola is home to the nations of Haiti and the Dominican Republic. To the west lies the islands of the Bahamas and the tip of Florida as well as Cuba. To the east lies the Atlantic Ocean.

Geography

• The Turks and Caicos consist of forty islands. Only ten are inhabited. Providenciales is the largest native population center and a prime destination for tourists from around the world. Grace Bay is the island’s largest harbor. Other population centers may be found at Middle Caicos Island and Grand Turk Island. Providenciales is located to the West. Middle Caicos Island faces the Atlantic Ocean to the east and the Caribbean Sea to the south. Middle Caicos has only three hundred residents. Other popular islands are West Caicos off the coast of Providenciales and South Caicos Island off the coast of Middle Caicos.

Providenciales

• Providenciales is a butterfly-shaped island surrounded by the Caribbean Sea to the south and the Atlantic Ocean to the north. To the south also lies the Chalk Sound National Park.

With luscious beaches, rich culture and divine food, the Turks and Caicos Islands in the Caribbean are a popular escape. The Turks and Caicos are made up of a series of eight main islands just north of the Dominican Republic and east of Cuba. They offer warm tropical weather to enjoy and vast coral reefs to explore.

Photo Source:admin.worldmarineguide.com

Diving

• For serious divers, the waters around the Turks and Caicos house some of the most diverse coral reefs and walls in the world. The reef is about 65 miles wide and more than 200 miles long. With a visibility of up to 200 feet and proximity to the beach, divers can see vast ocean life, shipwrecks, and have the option of beach or boat dives. The Columbus Passage, a 22-mile wide channel, offers an 8,000-foot drop off that serves as a major line of transit for rays, turtles and dolphins.

Whale Watching

• In the winter and spring, whale watching is a major event in Turks and Caicos. From December to April, the 2,500 members of the Atlantic humpback whale family swim right past the islands during their annual migration to the Mouchoir Bank just 30 miles southeast of the islands. During this time, visitors can watch the whales from vantage points on the beach or on whale watching boating trips. Divers can also go on excursions to listen to whale songs from under the water.

Bird Watching

• As part of the national parks system, more than 12 of the smaller surrounding cays have been set aside as breeding grounds for the many breeds of birds and other wildlife housed on the islands. Bird watching aficionados commonly visit the salt ponds and marshlands to see great blue herons, flamingos, osprey, pelicans, egrets, terns and a variety of other birds. In all, more than 170 breeds of birds can be observed on the Turks and Caicos.

Conch Farm

• The Caicos Conch Farm is the only conch farm in the world. Caribbean Queen conchs are famously raised both for their pearls and as a food product. At the conch farm visitors can learn how conchs are grown, and touch live conchs. The Caicos Conch Farm’s motto is “The World’s Only Sea Farm that raises Caribbean Queens fit for a King,” and its website claims conchs are “quickly becoming a rising star food” among top chefs.